Age-related hearing impairment

Age-related hearing loss or presbycusis is a decrease in hearing ability that occurs gradually as we age. It is one of the most common conditions of old age, affecting almost 50% of those over 75 years of age.

The hearing process involves small cells located in the inner ear called hair cells. As we age, these cells become damaged or die and do not regenerate, resulting in progressive and permanent hearing loss.

In addition to age, which is the most important factor, there are a number of other factors that can contribute to hearing impairment.

• Family history of hearing loss
• Repetitive exposure to loud noises. Exposure to loud noises such as concerts, headphones, airplanes, carpentry work, etc. can cause damage. So can exposure to explosive noises, such as from firearms.
• Smoking and tobacco smoke exposure
• Conditions such as diabetes
• Some medications such as antibiotics, sildenafil, high doses of aspirin, among others, can damage the inner ear.

Age-related hearing loss is a progressive process with symptoms appearing gradually. Symptoms include the following:

• Dampening of speech and other sounds.
• Difficulty understanding words, especially in crowded or noisy environments.
• Need for others to speak slower and louder and frequently ask them to repeat what they have said.
• Need to turn up the volume of sound devices such as cell phones, radios, television, etc.
• Being bothered by background noise.
• Appearance of ringing in the ear.

The main risk factor associated with presbycusis is age, making it a condition that is difficult to prevent. However, avoiding the risk factors that accelerate or aggravate it once it has appeared can help slow its progression. Among the most effective measures include:

• Avoiding or limiting time in noisy environments and spaces.
• Protecting the ear from loud and shrill sounds in the environment.
• Keep the volume of everyday devices such as televisions or cell phones low.
• Dry the ears well after bathing to prevent possible infections.
• Do not introduce objects into the ear canal, such as cotton swabs.